The 2016 Michael Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage Les Varonniers is a distinguished red wine crafted from 100% Syrah grapes sourced from old vines (over 60 years) in the Crozes-Hermitage appellation. It presents a deep garnet red color with a nose of very ripe red fruits, blackcurrant, raspberry, and a touch of liquorice. On the palate, it is ample, solid, and well-balanced, with a complex profile featuring vanilla and jam notes, alongside spicy and animalistic undertones packed with dark fruit. This wine is known for its profound ripeness and decadent concentration, offering a generous and open structure.
Food Pairings:
This robust Syrah pairs excellently with rich, savory dishes. Recommended pairings include:
- Grilled or roasted red meats, such as lamb or beef.
- Game meats, like venison or wild boar.
- Hearty stews or braised dishes.
- Strong, aged cheeses like Comté or aged cheddar.
- Dishes with black pepper or smoky flavors to complement the wine’s spicy notes.
Critics Reviews:
- Wine Enthusiast: “This is a profoundly ripe, decadently concentrated expression of Syrah that straddles the lines between Crozes-Hermitage and its more vaulted counterparts.”
- CellarTracker: “Very spicy, animal on the nose packed with dark fruit. Generous and well-balanced on the palate, open, complex. Delicious. 92-94.”
- Wine-Searcher: Echoes the sentiment of a ripe and concentrated Syrah with notable complexity.
Drink Window:
According to the producer, the 2016 vintage can be cellared for 30 to 60 years, potentially up to 50 to 75 years under optimal conditions, depending on storage. It is likely drinking well now but will continue to evolve and develop complexity over time.
